Wall wants to represent Team USA at Tokyo Olympics
Washington Wizards star John Wall hopes to suit up for Team USA at next summer's Olympics in Tokyo.
"When you put that red, white, and blue on, you're representing your country," Wall told The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears during an Instagram Live session Wednesday. "It doesn't matter if 'Wall' is on the back or whatever name is on the back, I want to represent my country. I know how much this country means to me, and I would definitely love to have an opportunity to play for it."
Wall said he's expressed his interest to USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo. The All-Star guard was added to Team USA's training camp roster ahead of the 2014 FIBA World Cup, but didn't make the final cut.
Two years later, Wall was named a finalist for the 2016 U.S. men's Olympic squad, but withdrew himself from consideration after undergoing knee surgery three months before the competition.
Wall will be in tough to secure a spot on next year's 12-man Tokyo team. The U.S. is loaded at the point guard position with the likes of Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, Chris Paul, and Damian Lillard competing for the same spot.
The former No. 1 overall pick also hasn't suited up in an NBA contest since December 2018, yet Wall believes his skill set is just what the Americans need.
"I feel like I'm the perfect player that can match (the type) of point guard they need," Wall said. "Somebody that defends, runs the team. And I ain't looking to score or shoot all the time. I just want to get guys involved.
"And there's nothing better than being able to come back with a gold medal. That's something I would love to have on my resume."